Lignocellnewsletter #1 starts now!

Hey there, esteemed Readers!

Get ready to dive into the very first edition of?#Lignocellnewsletter, your ultimate destination for all things lignin, cellulose, and nanocellulose. We've got a jam-packed issue ahead, filled with mind-blowing research breakthroughs and mind-boggling applications that'll leave you itching for more.

So, buckle up and let's embark on this thrilling journey together!

?? Editorial

Prepare yourself for an extraordinary adventure alongside us as we unveil our latest brainchild - Lignocellnews ! Here's the scoop: we noticed a gaping hole in the world of lignocellulosic materials research. The problem? The lack of top-notch, condensed, user-friendly, and up-to-the-minute research information being spread far and wide. But fear not, for we have a grand plan!

Our mission is to construct a hub where breakthroughs, dialogues, and profound wisdom in our domain can be disseminated like wildfire, bringing our community together in a seamless and enlightening way. Brace yourselves for a revolution in how we connect and stay in the know!

?? Featured Interview

Hold onto your lab coats, folks. Let's get this party started and make things mind-blowingly intriguing, shall we? We pondered over the question: "How can we achieve this?".

And guess what? The answer was as clear as day - let's pick the genius brain of one of the pioneers in the mesmerizing realm of TEMPO-oxidized nanocellulose. Now, if you're well-versed in this topic, you won't need to strain your gray matter too much. Without a doubt, the name that instantly pops up is none other than Professor? Akira Isogai ?from the? 日本东京大学 , right?

So, we went ahead and bombarded Prof. Isogai with five thought-provoking questions (keep reading to find out what they were), and his responses left us dumbfounded. But hold your horses, we’ll cut the chitchat for now, and let's delve into the nitty-gritty that led to the "discovery" of TEMPO-oxidized nanocellulose. A big shout-out to Prof. Isogai for laying down the groundwork that has fueled countless PhD pursuits and, of course, for keeping us on our toes and our minds expanding.

Are you ready? Let's go!!!

Question?1: Could you share some of your memories from your Ph.D. experience?

I was a PhD course student in the Wood Chemistry laboratory at the University of Tokyo. My PhD research theme was the preparation of completely substituted (i.e., DS = 3) new cellulose ethers using non-aqueous/organic/homogeneous cellulose solution systems, and characterization of the obtained products.

The experiments were interesting in terms of organic chemistry, but I realized that cellulose is quite stable and resistant to chemical reactions or dissolution. This is because large amounts of chemicals and organic solvents, as well as long reaction times at high temperatures, are required for the aforementioned purpose.

Eventually, significant quantities of washing effluents containing organic solvents and chemicals, which need to be treated, are formed during the isolation and purification processes of the cellulose ethers. This is NOT environmentally friendly.

Thus, at that time, I believed that the chemical reactions of cellulose using organic solvents had clear limitations in practical applications, but they may be used only in laboratory experiments such as permethylation analysis of plant components and molar mass distribution analysis of plant cellulosic materials.

Question?2: We are particularly interested in your discovery of TEMPO-mediated oxidation of cellulose. Could you explain how you arrived at this discovery?

After completing my PhD, I was looking for more efficient chemical reactions of cellulose under aqueous conditions, such as those found in paper chemistry, like AKD sizing and wet-strength improvement with polyamideamine epichlorohydrin (PAE) resin, both of which contain unusual four-membered rings in their molecules.

From my studies on the retention mechanisms of AKD and PAE on pulp fibers between 1986 and 1995, I realized that electrostatic interactions between a small amount of anionic carboxyl groups in pulp fibers and cationic AKD emulsion particles or cationic PAE molecules were the primary factors governing the efficient retention of AKD and PAE in water during the papermaking process. Thus, I began searching for efficient procedures to introduce carboxyl groups into cellulosic fibers, which could act as scaffolds for electrostatic interactions with cationic particles/molecules in water.

Since there was no internet system available at the time, I spent an entire day in 1995 holed up in our library, poring over Chemical Abstracts. There, I stumbled upon a paper on TEMPO-mediated oxidation of starch, reported by a group from the Netherlands. This piqued my interest because TEMPO-mediated oxidation was the complete opposite of the reactions I had used in my PhD study. It involved water-based reactions (without any organic solvents), catalytic amounts of chemicals, short reaction times at room temperature, and position-selective reactions similar to enzymatic reactions in our bodies.

Intrigued by this new catalytic oxidation system, I embarked on the TEMPO-mediated oxidation of cellulose and chitin with a Master's course student. At that point, I had no specific applications in mind for the oxidized products; I simply believed that this new research avenue could significantly expand the field of cellulose and other polysaccharide chemistry. This motivation led me to initiate the TEMPO-mediated oxidation of cellulose.

Therefore, intuitive and curiosity-driven research may serve as one of the driving forces for young researchers to dedicate their lives to scientific investigation, alongside target-oriented research.

Question?3: How would you describe the current state of cellulose research in Japan??

Some Japanese university laboratories, government institutes, and companies are taking on the challenge of cellulose-related R&D, despite the associated risks.

This is mainly due to the abundance of unused trees and timbers resulting from forest thinning in mountainous areas. To achieve a sustainable society with net-zero CO2 emissions by 2050, the efficient utilization of atmospheric CO2-accumulated cellulose and lignocellulosic materials is crucial, along with the establishment of suitable cycles involving tree plantation, silviculture, cutting, processing, and utilization of domestic wood resources.

Therefore, I believe that Japan has been conducting not only short-term but also relatively long-term R&D in the field of cellulose and lignocellulose, with the Japanese government providing support for fundamental and applied research in this area. Of course, companies are striving to minimize the production costs of nanocellulose materials as much as possible. Furthermore, they are actively exploring new application fields, even for the more expensive nanocellulose materials.

Some companies have successfully developed applications for nanocellulose materials, such as ink dispersions, metallic car coatings, superdeodorant diapers, eco-tires, and more. However, the quantities produced are currently small, leading to minimal reduction in nanocellulose prices. Nonetheless, Japanese companies are eager to take on the challenges of nanocellulose applications in order to stay competitive domestically and globally, transforming their businesses from conventional pulp and paper production to integrated biorefinery industries.

Question?4: How do you see the future of cellulose and lignocellulosic materials?

Cellulose and lignocellulose materials are synthesized by plants using atmospheric CO2. In order to create a sustainable and circular society, it is essential to significantly expand the quantitative and qualitative utilization of cellulose and lignocellulose materials, partly replacing fossil-based materials. This serves as one of the necessary measures to accomplish the aforementioned goal. Therefore, it is imperative that we now concentrate on fundamental and applied research of biomass resources and materials with much greater intensity and breadth.

Question?5: Lastly, as a prominent figure in this field, what advice would you give to young researchers like us who are starting their journey in cellulose and lignocellulosic research?

Cellulose- and lignocellulose-related science and technology are complex and intricate research fields. This complexity arises from the heterogeneous chemical structures of plant biomass components and the chemical/physical interactions that occur between these components at the molecular and nano-sized levels. Nonetheless, or perhaps precisely because of this, these fields hold great value and are deserving of the dedication of young researchers. I firmly believe that finding an effective approach to significantly increase the quantitative and qualitative utilization of biomass resources, as partial alternatives to fossil resources, is a pressing human concern that must be resolved as soon as possible.

?? Industry News

Innovation Meets?#Fashion: Exciting news from the fashion frontline! The innovative duo, materials science company? PANGAIA ?and US-based textile startup? Evrnu?, SPC , have joined forces to produce the Renu denim jacket. This eco-savvy piece is entirely crafted from recycled cellulose, turning heads and sparking conversations about sustainable alternatives to traditional cotton. A small step for fashion, but a giant leap towards waste reduction.?

#Adquisitions:? Solenis , the water specialty chemical company for?#PulpAndPaper?industries from?#Delaware, has just made a big splash in the industry. They've scooped up Diversey, a company known for its wide array of cleaning products. And guess what? They did it in style, with an all-cash deal that rings up to a cool $4.6 billion.

#AI: A game-changer in #Lignin, #Cellulose, and #Nanocellulose Studies? From drug discovery to molecular synthesis, AI's applications in chemistry are shaking up the traditional test tube. In our beloved fields of lignin and cellulose, researchers are leveraging AI to design molecules and spot potential drugs. It's early days, but these advancements could lead to quicker, more budget-friendly scientific eurekas.?

??The?#Top10?Chemical Companies in the world: the challenges in the?#energytransition.?

Roll out the red carpet, because we’re about to introduce you to the A-listers of the chemical industry. Here they are in all their billion-dollar glory: the top 10 chemical companies, according to?C&EN‘s Global Top 50 survey for 2022.

1.? 巴斯夫 ?- $92.0 billion in 2022 chemical sales

Let’s be honest, 2022 was a year that BASF execs would rather scrub from their memory banks. Picture this: revenue is up by 11%, while chemical operating profits are down just 2%. Seems okay, right? Wrong. The energy crisis, courtesy of Russia’s invasion of Ukraine, forced BASF to halt some of its operations. The company's energy bill shot up by a staggering $2.9 billion! They had to shut down some capacity, and the Wintershall Dea oil and gas affiliate's withdrawal from Russia led to a massive write-down of $6.7 billion. Ouch!

2.? 中国石化 ?- $66.9 billion in 2022 chemical sales

Enter Sinopec, the chemical titan that's gearing up to make waves with Ineos. This dynamic duo is forming joint ventures with an estimated potential to rake in $10 billion in annual revenues. How cool is that? They're also venturing into green hydrogen with a renewable energy-fueled water electrolysis plant in Inner Mongolia. Environmentally friendly and a smart business move.

3.? 陶氏化学 ?- $56.9 billion in 2022 chemical sales

Next up, Dow, the daredevil that aims to be the first to build a nuclear power plant at a chemical complex, reducing greenhouse gas emissions in the process. This groundbreaking project is slated for completion by the end of the decade and will be a milestone for the industry. Dow isn't just betting on nuclear - it's diversifying into low-carbon energy on multiple fronts, from hydrogen to cellulosic ethanol.

4.? 沙特基础工业公司 ?- $48.8 billion in 2022 chemical sales

Here comes Sabic, always having some ambitious construction project up its sleeve. The company has a vision to construct a large oil-to-chemical complex in Ras al-Khair, Saudi Arabia. They're also expanding their joint venture with SK Geo Centric to make low-density polyethylene, elastomers, and plastomers. They've got quite the full plate.

5.? 埃克森美孚 ?- $47.5 billion in 2022 chemical sales

ExxonMobil is eager to turn carbon sequestration into a viable business. It’s all in for capturing and storing carbon dioxide and leveraging it for blue hydrogen production. They've even secured deals to provide CO2 transport and storage to third parties. Impressive, right?

6.? INEOS ?- $41.2 billion in 2022 chemical sales

Ineos, a significant player in petrochemicals and plastics, is setting its sights on Asia. With a series of billion-dollar deals with Sinopec, the company is expanding its global footprint. Plus, Ineos founder Jim Ratcliffe might soon diversify into something completely different - soccer. Yes, you read that right!

7.? Formosa Plastics Corporation, U.S.A. - $40.2 billion in 2022 chemical sales

Formosa Plastics' $9.4 billion petrochemical project in Louisiana seems to be in perpetual limbo. But the company is pushing forward with a more manageable styrenic block copolymer expansion project back in Taiwan. Keep pushing, Formosa!

8.? LG Chem ?- $40.2 billion in 2022 chemical sales

LG Chem is pumping serious cash into battery materials. They're planning a $3 billion cathode material facility in Tennessee, alongside other investments in South Korea and collaborations for biobased chemicals. Talk about betting big on the future of energy!

9.? LyondellBasell ?Industries - $39.5 billion in 2022 chemical sales

LyondellBasell is dreaming big when it comes to circularity. They're constructing the first plant to use MoReTec technology in Germany, which breaks down waste plastics into petrochemical feedstocks. It's a huge step towards a more sustainable chemical industry.

Bonus:

15.? Syngenta Group - $28.5 billion in 2022 chemical sales

Syngenta is investing in biological crop protection technologies. It is working with Biotalys on biological insecticides. And in September, Syngenta was named the exclusive distributor of a microbial seed treatment, made by Bioceres Crop Solutions, that improves nitrogen uptake for soybeans.

So, there you have it. The top 9+1 chemical companies of 2022, each with their challenges, and achievements. Here's to another year of innovation, sustainability, and world-changing chemistry!

???Job Opportunities?Knocking

Attention, biomaterials and circular economy enthusiasts! We've got some exciting post-doctoral positions for you:

1. Prof.? Julien BRAS ?is offering two incredible post-doc opportunities in the field of cellulose, collaborating with industrial partners in the high-value paper and packaging industries. If you have a PhD in Cellulose or Material Science, this is your moment to shine! European candidates are encouraged to apply by sending their CV to [email protected].

2. Join Professor Joel Pawlak 's team at NC State Forest Biomaterials Department! They have a remarkable post-doc opportunity waiting for someone like you. Don't miss out, apply here!

3. Professor William Joe Sagues ?has an open postdoc position on techno-economic and life cycle assessment of biomass carbon removal and storage technologies. Start date is flexible. Apply here!

4. Professor? Timo Leskinen ?is inviting a postdoc to join the new Chemistry of Circular Economy group. More information on the position and University of Helsinki can be found here!

Equip your career with these epic opportunities and embark on a heroic scientific journey!???

?? Events?&?Opportunities

Hold on tight for some exciting news! We've got a bunch of updates coming your way about conferences, workshops, and incredible job opportunities in the captivating world of lignin, cellulose, and nanocellulose. We'll make sure you're always in the loop with the latest and greatest happenings.

FPInnovations ?is hosting their Pulp, Paper, and Bioproducts Course from October 16-20. Perfect for anyone with a keen interest in the pulp and paper industry, it covers everything from fiber supply to decarbonization strategies. Reach out to Xuejun Zou for further information.

Resources?&?Extras

But wait, there's more! In our upcoming editions, we've got some fantastic resources lined up just for you. Picture this: grant drafting templates to make your life easier, post-doc/PhD/Master opportunities that could be your next big leap, and juicy details about available grants from awesome organizations like the USDA and NSF. That's not all, though! We'll also shine a spotlight on remarkable organizations, award winners, and all things extra special. Get ready to unlock a treasure trove of knowledge!

?? Research Spotlight

We're rolling out 'Research Spotlight,' a fresh feature in our Lignocellnewsletter lineup. This section cherry-picks the most applauded and disseminated papers from our inaugural three months - your intellectual appetites have guided this selection!

Our TOP Publications are (click on the link, like and share the Lignocellnews love for these top articles and researchers):

1. Reviews (#Lignin?&?#CircularEconomy): Prospects for the integration of lignin materials into the circular economy - Likes (132) & Shares (2)

By: Blaise Tardy,?Erlantz Lizundia,?Chamseddine Guizani,?Minna Hakkarainen?&?Mika Sipponen?from?Stockholms universitet,?Khalifa University,?Universidad del País Vasco/Euskal Herriko Unibertsitatea,?VTT?&?KTH Royal Institute of Technology

2. Research (#Nanocellulose?&?#SmartMaterials): A bacterial cellulose smart dressing that changes color if wounds are infected - Likes (115) & Shares?(7)

By: Olof Eskilson,?Elisa Zattarin, Linn Berglund,?Kristiina Oksman, Kristina Hanna,?Jonathan Rakar,?Petter Sivlér,?M?rten Skog,?Ivana Rinklake,?Rozalin Shamasha,?Zeljana Sotra,?Annika Starkenberg,?Magnus Odén, Emanuel Wiman,?Hazem Khalaf, Torbj?rn Bengtsson, Johan Junker,?Robert Seleg?rd,?Emma Bj?rk,?Daniel Aili, from?Link?ping University

3. Review (#Cellulose?&?#WaterInteractions): Cellulose: A Review of Water Interactions, Applications in Composites, and Water Treatment - Likes (113) & Shares (2)

By:?Anita Etale,?Amaka Onyianta, PhD,?Simon Turner?and?Stephen Eichhorn from?University of Bristol?&?The University of Manchester

??? Portraits of Discovery

But there's more! Our #PortraitsOfDiscovery section takes a plunge into the most magnetizing post of the quarter. This series features AI-generated portraits of our favorite scientists as pieces of art. Expect an exploratory deep-dive into the research that has kept you on the edge of your lab stools.

The posts with more engagement in the last month are:

1. Art (#GreatChemists?&?#BreakingBad): The greatest chemists of all time. Journey Through the Life of an Antihero! - #EngagementRate: 48.5%

2. Art (#MarieCurie?&?#MonaLisa): Celebrating women in science and?#mother’s month with our "#PortraitsOfDiscovery" series featuring Marie Curie as the “Mona Lisa” by Leonardo da Vinci - #EngagementRate: 35.4%

3. Father’s Day Special (#GreatScientist?&?#GreatFathers?): A special edition of "#PortraitsOfDiscovery" with Father-Son Duos who revolutionized science and funny cross-overs with movie dads - #EngagementRate: 33.8%

?? Spread the?Lignocellnews?Love!

Share the excitement of Lignocellnews with your fellow cellulose enthusiasts! Invite them to subscribe to the Lignocellnewsletter and join our LinkedIn community. Together, let's push the boundaries of lignocellulose research.